Royal Caribbean has decided to follow the example set by Celebrity Cruises, by offering all-inclusive drinks packages on selected cruise ships.

Cruise passengers will be able to choose from three different options, depending on their personal preferences.

For $29 (£18) per day, per person, travellers can buy a package offering unlimited beers and other brews, as well as house wine (by the glass). There will also be a 25% discount on other wines and liquors.

The classic packages costs $39 (£24) per day, per person, and also includes cocktails and speciality liquors.

The Premium Package at $49 (£30) per day, per person, includes more premium liquors, as well as a range of wines not included in the other packages.

The ships that form part of this promotion are Grandeur of the Seas (from 13 March 2011), in addition to Independence of the Seas and Legend of the Seas (from 14 March 2011). There are small differences between the packages available on individual ships.

Independence of the Seas is based in the UK and sails from Southampton throughout the year. Grandeur’s time is divided between the Mediterranean and South America. Legend of the Seas is based in Asia.

The big question of course remains whether Royal Caribbean will eventually roll out these packages to all ships in the cruise fleet. According to spokesperson Harry Liu, there are no such plans in the pipeline at present. He did say, however, that if the program were successful, the company might consider such a move.